Artistry in Residence

Local designers add unique flourishes to furnishings

By Marissa Rodriguez

Photo courtesy Gambrell Renard

Gambrell Renard

Cowhide, sheepskin, fur and rich leathers are favorite furniture coverings in traditional Texan or ranch homes, but designer Gambrell Renard gives them a chance to enjoy a wider appeal. “My style is a blend of traditional American with modern lines and a rustic flair,” says Renard, a former fashion sales representative with an eye for the unexpected. In his portfolio, vibrantly dyed furs and printed skins cover oversized throw pillows or classic furniture frames, while hides showcase their natural beauty on clean-lined sofas or around the edges of sleek mirrors. Though his work is already one-of-a-kind, he’s always on the search for new, unconventional materials. Soon, he’ll unveil pieces incorporating Piñatex, an eco-friendly, leather-like fabric made from pineapple leaves.

Heather Helseth

A 20-year veteran of the interior design world, Heather Helseth knows the art of upcycling. After seeing a need for unique, customizable furniture featuring a mix of multiple fabrics, Helseth launched her own furniture line through her ReNewal Home Décor business. She creates custom accent chairs, coffee table ottomans, barstools, dining chairs and headboards, among other pieces, and often uses vintage furniture frames by gutting, reviving and giving them new life. “I love the lines of vintage pieces—the craftsmanship, quality and attention to detail,” she says. “I want to create pieces that are a focal point in the room, that make a statement and are unique.” Helseth’s eclectic use of bold fabric, color and patterns combined with an artisan approach give the pieces a distinct, head-turning style.

Elizabeth Carrington

Elizabeth Carrington was working in a San Francisco advertising agency when she developed a passion for screen printing. The artist uses the technique to create the bright, funky textiles that she juxtaposes against antique 15th century French–style chairs, ottomans and loveseats. “I love the idea of creating art that is functional,” says Carrington, who counts pop art icons Jeff Koons, Sofia Copolla’s Marie Antoinette and film director Baz Luhrmann among her inspirations. The result is unique seating that reflects her rebellious and slightly subversive style, which she refers to as “calming chaos.” Quite unlike anything else in the city, her mutable and fresh approach has certainly made her one to watch.

Victor Salas

From ornate metal doors to exquisite wood cabinetry and closets to dream kitchens, there seems to be almost nothing that ARTchitectural.com’s Victor Salas cannot do. And with good reason. A fifth-generation artist, builder and craftsman, Salas has design in his genes. He learned woodworking design, building and finishes from his father, grandfather and uncles, and fine metal work from his maternal grandfather and uncles. His custom work is largely handmade and would stand out in even the most luxurious homes, but Salas’ talent extends far beyond furniture. “There are no limits to my scope of work,” he says. “I can design and construct a product as small as a chair or as large as a 30-foot aluminum sculpture.” An installation like that can be found at the Metropolitan Methodist Hospital and is further proof of Salas indelible influence on art throughout the city.